I couldn't agree more, that the lvc boards are the best way to go. But far from mandatory.
What is mandatory is having some kind of way to monitor at least the total pack voltage. Even a simple 4 buck Harbor Freight voltmeter is better than nada.
After that, the pack size buzzers are ok, if you pay more attention to the led's and mount them where you can see them. no sound indicates, A , you didn't hear it. B it got disconnected, or C maybe you have power left. A combination of total pack voltage monitoring and the buzzers is not too bad, unless you ride further than your known range without paying attention. I don't often get suprised by the beeps coming when I haven't known they were coming by either the led's blinking blue, or the CA.
Obviously a real lvc can be better. But really, even with a reliable lvc, you still want to be aware of your pack voltage so you can slow down sooner if needed, and know what your range is on that day's weather, or hills, or temperature.